Kitchen Cabinets Designs: Which is Right for You

Kitchen Renovation & Kitchen Remodeling

Kitchen cabinets come in so many styles that it might be difficult to determine which type you need. There are many things to consider when shopping for cabinets: types, quality grades, door, size, installation requirements, etc. Some come in stock designs and some can be custom-made to fit your specific requirements.

Here is an overview of the different kitchen cabinet designs and styles:

Wall – Upper cabinets that must be installed on walls are typically 12-inches deep. They can be increased to 17-inches deep on custom applications.
Base – The standard size for base cabinets is 36-inches in height and 24-inches in depth. On some semi-custom applications, the depth may be increased by a few inches. Base cabinetry rests on top of a recessed rider.
Tall – The tall cabinets are ideal for use as pantry units or broom closets. The average size is around 83-inches in height.
Specialty units – These include everything from corner cabinets to sink fronts. They are designed to maximize square footage and to simplify organizational efforts.

Ready to Assemble Units

Also known as RtA kitchen cabinets, these units are ready to be installed right out of the package. They are constructed with cost in mind. You can choose the size, material and style. Since they are ready for assembly, they do not require professional installation. If you have experience with DIY home improvement projects, you can just follow the instructions and put them together yourself. If you want to order RtA cabinets, make sure that they feature a colour and finish that match the rest of your kitchen.

Custom Cabinetry

Custom cabinets are high-end and completely made to order. They offer the most diversity in finishes, style, material, accessories, etc. If non-standard sizes won’t fit in your kitchen for whatever reason, a custom or semi-custom cabinet is the best solution. Since you’re getting exactly what you want, you need to be a bit cautious where money is concerned. Possibilities are endless, but you don’t want to get too carried away – otherwise you could end up spending more than you initially intended. The price of custom cabinetry doesn’t just include the cabinets themselves, but installation and delivery as well.

Semi-Custom Cabinets

A less-expensive option compared to custom cabinets, semi-custom units fall in the middle of the price range. These are “special order” cabinets, so to speak. They tend to be standard in size, yet allow for some modifications. Semi-custom cabinetry can include anything from a stock cabinet fitted with custom-made doors to custom cabinets with a manufacturer’s selected finish. Like custom cabinets, the price of semi-custom units usually includes installation.

Stock Kitchen Cabinets

This is the cheapest option. Stock cabinets are pre-made on-site from modular units. Since they are available in fixed sizes, they cannot be altered and come as-is. If you have an average-sized kitchen, you might not have unique cabinetry needs. However, keep in mind that stock cabinets offer a somewhat limited range of accessories. There isn’t much you can do to modify them in any way.

Now that you have a better understanding of the different types of kitchen cabinets, you can begin shopping for the ones that will be best for your kitchen.

Kitchen Cabinets Designs: Which is Right for You

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